8 Home Repairs You Shouldn’t Try to DIY

When it comes to fixing up your home, sometimes it seems like a great idea to take on home repairs yourself.

Unfortunately, this could lead to some dangerous situations for you and your family. It can also be more pricey since you may not have the professional expertise to pull off whatever you’re fixing the right way.

So before you pick up that sledgehammer or nail gun, be sure to do some research. And hopefully, find a good contractor or inspector who may be able to do the job for you.

Keep reading to find out what home repairs you should probably avoid doing yourself.

1. Plumbing

Sometimes it’s easy to trick yourself into thinking you can fix every problem that crops up in your home.

But unfortunately, this is not always the case.

When it comes to home repairs, leaving major plumbing issues to the professionals is a good idea. Making sure your pipes are connected properly and your water systems are running right requires a skill level that most home-owners do not have.

A tricky combination of electrical and plumbing, these tools can be dangerous to repair and replace. And if done improperly, can lead to major structural issues. And even injuries.

2. Electrical

Like plumbing repairs, electrical repairs can be tricky and will probably require a professional.

One of the biggest dangers when it comes to fixing the electrical features of your home is an electrical shock. When repairing wiring you must have some knowledge of how electricity works.

But you must also be able to navigate some of the red tape involved with home repair. Knowing what permits to buy, what the local codes are in your community and how to find a good inspector for any work you do can further complicate these repairs.

3. Tree Removal

But it is actually extremely dangerous. Trees may be close to power lines. And since many professionals can figure out where a falling tree will land, they eliminate some of the dangerous trial-and-error DIYers might go through.

If you think you’re going to have to remove a tree from your property, make sure you research local tree removal companies. Choosing a crew that is accredited and has a good rapport is important.

These professionals will be able to take trees down. All without damaging your home. Or worse yet-your neighbors’.

4. Asbestos Removal

Asbestos was a common flame retardant material many industrial buildings used. But it can also be found in older homes.

It should absolutely be removed by a professional group.

Asbestos is a cancerous but naturally occurring material. If it is present in your home it can endanger your life. As well as your neighbors’! Make sure to contact your regional asbestos removal program and state asbestos administrative department.

They will be able to tell you the local requirements and regulations you will need to know when getting rid of the asbestos in your home.

Then, once you know what the rules are, you’ll want to find a team of asbestos inspectors and contractors who can test and remove the asbestos.

Asbestos removal can be expensive too. Most contractors will charge anywhere from $1,500-3,000 to remove asbestos from your home. But it could go as high as $30,000 if your home is larger and older.

You and your family may have to stay out of the home while this process is being completed. Which can be complicated. But again, your safety is important. So don’t skimp on any of this.

5. Gas Appliance Installation

One of the trickiest things to fix yourself is the gas appliances in your home.

It is not recommended to fix furnaces, ovens, water heaters or gas dryers on your own. Despite making sure to turn the gas off, many homeowners may not get it turned off entirely.

Which of course, can endanger their lives and the lives of anyone they may be living with.

Build up of gas can result in an explosion. Or carbon monoxide poisoning.

If you think you may need to have a gas powered appliance repaired, be sure to call in an expert.

6. Roof Repairs

Giving your home’s roof a makeover is not something that should ever be done by homeowners.

Finding a professional roofing crew is going to be the safest and easiest way to repair your room. Some homes you can repair one or two shingles. Especially if its a one story ranch style home. But any more floors and any more than a few shingles and the danger factor increases.

Roofing is hard, dirty and exhausting work. And if done improperly you could pay for the cheap fix further down the road.

7. Structural Work

Sometimes modern media makes fixing your home seem easy. But unfortunately for many, it can be dangerous and nearly impossible to do.

Professional contractors will know what structural things to look out for when working on homes. You may not.

Faulty structural renovations may lead to major structural failure. Unless you have professional experience in working with cement or wood, do not take on anything major in your home.

Demolition processes may seem fun but ultimately, they could wield more risk than benefit.

8. Swimming Pool Installation

Last but certainly not least, putting in a swimming pool can be extremely dangerous.

While maintaining a pool is relatively easy for a homeowner to do, putting in a pool is a complicated process.

First of all, you have to make sure it’s okay with your neighborhood. Many homes are subject to HOA rules. And there’s also the local government. Some towns do not allow any sort of massive ground disturbances like happens when you want to install a pool.

It’s also extremely important to compare companies. keep an eye out for companies with a record of abandoned projects. And make sure to avoid any group that isn’t vetted by the Better Business Bureau.

Pools can be a very involved addition to your home. Make sure you really want to go through with it before you break ground.

Pick the Right Contractor for Your Home Repairs

It’s always important to compare the costs of any contractors you may find to work on your home for you.

With our help, we can guide you to the right company. And soon you’ll be well on your way to safer and professional home repairs.